The dimness of night transformed into early morning before Gairynzvl finally succeeded in drawing Ayla away from the harrowing emotion at Mardan"s bedside so she could rest, which she needed to do desperately. Returning with her to his bed, he leaned against the wall and drew her into his arms, holding her in his warming embrace while he stroked her hair gently and centered his thoughts on restful, positive notions so that her own shifting contemplations could attain some measure of peace. The attendant Healers quietly came and went throughout the hours, repeatedly assuring them in hushed tones that there was no great cause for concern over Mardan"s condition, certain that his deep and uninterrupted sleep was restorative in nature. Persuaded by these reassurances as well as Gairynzvl"s qui
